Development of a lab-on-a-chip device for optimising CPA delivery in human oocyte vitrification

Abstract

Cryopreservation of reproductive cells, including sperms, oocytes, and embryos, has become a vital practice in contemporary medicine, especially for patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy that may impair fertility. This study introduces a novel microfluidic device designed to automate vitrification processes for oocytes, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce cell damage and material consumption. The device, constructed from PDMS and PMMA polymers, utilizes optimised channel designs and waste holes to facilitate the process with less operator interaction, ensuring uniform solution distribution and minimal cell movement. Experimental results demonstrated the device capability to effectively manage the vitrification stages, achieving better outcomes than manual methods. The device confines oocytes within a limited chamber, minimising damage and material consumption, optimising resource utilisation, enhancing cost-efficiency, significantly reducing the technical skill and time required, and offering a cost-effective alternative for fertility clinics. Moreover, the device transparency allows for real-time monitoring, enhancing its utility by enabling direct observation of the processes. This feature not only provides a clear visual confirmation of the process, but also allows for immediate intervention if any irregularities are detected. This microfluidic device significantly advances cryopreservation technology by conforming to KITAZATO Corporation instructions and reducing solution consumption by over 100 times. Its potential applications in biomedical research, such as stem cell preservation and genetic studies, leads to a promising prospect for the scientific community beyond their useful applications in fertility clinics.